Neuropathy Signs and Symptoms

Do you have signs and symptoms of neuropathy? Neuropathy is also known as peripheral neuropathy because of its effect on the body’s sensory and motor nerves. It is very common for patients to experience the first symptoms in their extremities (hands, arms, legs and feet). When this occurs it is referred to as Sensorimotor Polyneuropathy.

Signs and Symptoms of Neuropathy

Experiencing tingling sensations in the extremities. This sensation is also described as a pins and needling feeling or prickling feeling.

Burning pain in the lower limbs. Eventually the burning will move into the arms and hands as the condition progresses.

Having pains that are sharp and stabbing. Generally these pains are worse in the evening. Like the burning sensation, it will begin in the feet and legs and as the condition processes, the “electric-like” pain will move into the hands and arms.

It is also common for patients to develop muscle weakness and coordination problems. The muscles in the limbs may also become paralyzed. Patients also have increased likelihood of developing foot ulcers and infections in the skin. Peripheral neuropathy can occur when there is nerve damage and develop into dysesthesia, which effects a patients’ touch sensation. This often leads to a tingling and/or burning sensation. The skin on the extremities eventually will become so sensitive that the pressure from sheets or towels.

Autonomic Neuropathy

Autonomic neuropathy happens when automatic nerves, which control body functions such as breathing, perspiration and maintaining a heart rate, are affected. When this occurs a patient will experience:

Low blood pressure leading to dizziness with rising from a seated or lying position

Accelerated heartbeat

Nausea and vomiting

Difficulty swallowing

Balance and coordination problems

Digestive issues

Diarrhea

Inability to empty bladder completely

Bowel and bladder incontinence

Mononeuropathy

Patients’ also may experience issues in an individual nerve. When this occurs it is known as mononeuropathy. A person will also experience:

Problems with the eyes

Issues with focus

Double vision

Pain in the eye

Pain in specific areas like:

Shin

Chest

Foot

Bell’s Palsy: a disorder that affects the nerves of the face causing a single side of the face to become weak or paralyzed

It’s important to see a doctor if you are experiencing any abnormal pain, numbness, tingling or weakness in your arms, legs, wrists, ankles, hands or feet. When a condition such as this is diagnoised early, you are able to control the condition and potential prevent more damage. It is also recommended to see a doctor if you are having difficulty with sleeps, trigger depression or if you have a small cut on an extremity that doesn’t appear to be healing normally. Our team at Optimal Health Straw Chiropractic is here to help.

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